Advice on Hedge Cutting
It is recommended that the cutting of hedges and trees is avoided between March and August as this is the main breeding season for nesting birds.
It is an offence under Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 to intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built.
It will be an intentional act , for example, if you or your neighbour know there is an active nest in the hedge and still cut the hedge, damaging or destroying the nest in the process. This also applies to farmers, landowners and contractors.